9 Food and Drink Combinations People Are Currently Liking

Food combinations are getting more daring these days as people experiment with flavors that might seem odd at first. Mixing sweet with salty or adding fruit to savory dishes is becoming fairly common on social media and in restaurants. Gently trying these unusual pairings can open up simple options of tastes that you might never have thought would work together. These small experiments can add a light improvement to many meals.

1. Chocolate and Soy Sauce

The idea of dipping chocolate into soy sauce might sound strange, but this combination is gaining fans worldwide. The saltiness from the soy sauce enhances chocolate’s natural sweetness while adding complexity to its flavor profile. Many food enthusiasts recommend using dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content for better experience. The umami elements in soy sauce bring out hidden flavor in the chocolate that you might never notice otherwise. Try it with a small piece of chocolate first – just add a tiny drop of soy sauce and experience the combination.

2. Coffee and Orange

Start your morning with a refreshing twist on your coffee routine by trying this Mediterranean-inspired combination. Adding a slice of orange or a splash of fresh orange juice to your coffee not only softens its bitterness but also introduces a delicate citrus fragrance. This practice, long embraced by coffee shops in Italy and Spain, is now gaining popularity worldwide. The natural citrus oils beautifully enhance coffee’s acidity without overpowering its deep, rich flavor. For a simple at-home version, squeeze a small piece of orange peel over your coffee to release its aromatic oils, then drop it into your cup. This method pairs particularly well with medium roasts.

3. Pickles and Cheddar Cheese

This pairing has been a staple in the UK for generations and is now gaining popularity around the world as a reliable snack option. The crisp, tangy snap of pickles offsets the dense, creamy texture of aged cheddar in a way that’s satisfying. The acidity in pickles refreshes the palate between portions of cheese, making each piece feel distinct. According to food science, the contrast in texture and the interplay of sharp and rich flavors brings a sense of balance. For a simple appetizer, try layering thin slices of pickle with medium-sharp cheddar on crackers. Some enthusiasts even add a small amount of honey to introduce a mild sweetness to this savory combination.

4. Strawberries and Apple Cider Vinegar

Long appreciated in Italian cuisine, this pairing is now gaining traction among a wider audience. The natural sweetness and juiciness of ripe strawberries take on added complexity when paired with aged balsamic. Its balanced tang and subtle richness bring out deeper dimensions in the fruit’s flavor. This combination works well because both ingredients share compounds that intensify each other when used together. For the best outcome, choose fresh, seasonal strawberries and a high-quality balsamic that’s been aged for at least 12 years. Simply slice the berries, drizzle lightly, and allow them to rest for five minutes so the flavors can blend.

5. Watermelon and Salt

Sprinkling a small amount of salt on watermelon might seem unusual at first, but this technique has long been embraced in various parts of the world. The salt doesn’t just contrast with the fruit’s flavor—it also intensifies its natural sweetness through a sensory response. Salt works by dulling bitter taste, which in turn allows the fruit’s sweetness to come through more clearly. As a result, the watermelon tastes juicier and more refreshing than it might otherwise. Some people build on this combination by adding a squeeze of lime or a dash of chili powder for added complexity. It’s especially cooling when served cold on a hot day.

6. Dates and Cheese

This sweet-and-savory combination, rooted in Middle Eastern cooking, is now gaining popularity across the globe. Soft, caramel-toned Medjool dates filled with smooth cheese make contrast in both flavor and texture. The natural sugars in the dates are offset by the mild tang of cheeses like cream cheese, goat cheese, or blue cheese. This pairing also offers a satisfying mix of carbohydrates and protein, making it flavorful and nutritionally balanced. For a simple appetizer, slice the dates lengthwise, remove the pits, and fill them with the cheese of your choice. To add texture, some people include a pinch of sea salt or a scattering of chopped nuts.

7. Avocado and Honey

Avocado paired with honey is gaining traction as a quick and nourishing option for breakfast or a snack. The smooth texture of avocado provides a rich base that contrasts with the natural sweetness of honey, offering a balanced flavor profile. The healthy fats in avocado also help slow the absorption of sugars, making this a steadier option compared to many sugary foods. Some people enhance the flavor contrast by adding a pinch of sea salt or a splash of lemon juice. This combination works well spread on whole grain toast or enjoyed straight from the avocado half. Others blend the two into smoothies for a creamy, naturally sweet component.

8. Mango and Chili Powder

Street vendors in Mexico, Southeast Asia, and India have offered this sweet-spicy pairing for generations. Ripe mango slices lightly coated with chili powder deliver a bold contrast of flavors—sweetness balanced by heat. When combined, the fruit’s natural sugars and the chili’s warmth produce a layered sensory experience. Often, a touch of salt and a splash of lime juice are added to deepen the overall profile. To try this at home, choose mangoes that yield slightly when pressed and use a chili powder blend that includes salt and a hint of lime. This option is especially appealing as a cool snack on hot days.

9. Olive Oil and Ice Cream

Once a trend in restaurants, this olive oil and ice cream pairing is now gaining attention in home kitchens. A drizzle of quality olive oil brings out an unusual contrast when paired with mildly sweet ice creams. The oil’s fruity and slightly peppery character works well alongside flavors like plain cream or other subtle varieties. When poured over cold ice cream, the oil forms a delicate, semi-firm coating that breaks apart with each spoonful. Some people finish the dish with a pinch of flaky sea salt to enhance the interplay of flavors. For better results, choose a fresh, virgin olive oil with fruit-forward qualities, and allow the ice cream to soften slightly before adding the oil.